Game Development Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 6. Mobile Game Controls
The control system, together with graphics, is the factor that most affects the game-
play experience. If game controls are not intuitive and easy to learn, or don't respond
promptly to players' actions, players won't enjoy playing that game and it won't sell
much.
We thus dedicate a chapter to describing the available input methods and techno-
logies available on today's mobile devices, including keypads, touch screens, and
sensors that can enhance your gameplay experience. By knowing the strengths and
weaknesses of each input method available on today's smartphones, you will be able
to make the right choice when designing the control system for your next mobile
game.
In this chapter we will cover the following topics:
• Input technology
• Touchscreens
• Keypads
• Touchscreen gestures
• Built-in devices
• Future input technologies
Input technology
What is the difference between passive (video) and active (games) digital entertain-
ment? The answer is being able to control the outcome of the experience. And how
does one control the game's outcome? Well, with the controls, also known as in-
put. The two most common forms of input are via the keypad of traditional phones
featuring physical buttons, and the touchscreen and sensors that smartphones are
equipped with. As smartphones featuring touchscreens and sensors represent the
latest technology, which is replacing traditional cell phones, this chapter concentrates
on the touchscreen and the many input options available on today's smartphones.
